John Slattery, who taught computer science at Suncoast Community High School for 19 years, died last month.

"The principal, I guess, apparently, you know, made the decision to help the family out with the funeral cost and issued a check to the funeral home in advance of collecting any donations," said Michael Burke, chief financial officer for the School District of Palm Beach County.

Burke said Principal Linda Cartlidge established a memorial account in Slattery's name and used money from the school's internal account. She paid a Lake Worth funeral home $11,910, money that usually comes from parents and students for various clubs and school activities.

"It's a violation of our policy and procedures," said Burke, adding that her "heart was probably in the right place."

"Compassion is a quality we like to see in our teachers and principals," said Burke. "But it has to be guarded to some extent when it comes to the management of the school's money."

Cartlidge denied WPBF 25 News' request for an on-camera interview, but she did say that Slattery's life insurance policy was not immediately available to his family in time for his funeral. She said the money has since been paid back with nearly $12,000 in donations.

School district officials have begun an investigation. The principal could face some kind of discipline once it is complete.

Palm Beach County schools are allowed to have fundraisers for victims' families to help with funeral costs. But Burke said they are not allowed to pay before actually receiving any money.

"We're putting an action plan together to try to avoid these types of things in the future," said Burke.

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